Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Kolkāta, India

Kolkāta, India, Kolkāta, Activity-Based Travel Pages, Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks

Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Kolkāta, India

Sunderbans National Park

1. Sunderbans National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sunderbans is famous for its Royal Bengal tigers and unique mangrove ecosystem. It offers boat safaris that take you through the dense forest waterways, providing a chance to spot diverse wildlife. The park is also home to saltwater crocodiles, making it a thrilling destination for nature lovers.
  • Accessibility: Requires a two-hour drive and boat ride from Kolkāta.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Best visited from September to March for optimal wildlife spotting.
  • Safety: Accompanied safaris are a must due to potential tiger encounters.
Gorumara National Park

2. Gorumara National Park

Known for its population of Indian rhinoceroses, Gorumara offers a rich green landscape with plenty of animal and bird species to see. The park's lookout towers provide striking views of the grasslands and wildlife.
  • Accommodation: Nearby forest bungalows available with prior booking.
  • Visitor Season: Best visited between November and April.
  • Guided Tours: Essential for navigating the park safely.
Jaldapara National Park

3. Jaldapara National Park

This park is one of the best places to see Indian rhinos in Kolkāta's vicinity. It is also known for its elephant safaris that traverse through the tall grasslands.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Rich in bird species like the Bengal florican.
  • Safaris: Both elephant and jeep safaris are popular.
  • Location: About 600 km from Kolkāta, typically requiring an overnight journey.
Buxa Tiger Reserve

4. Buxa Tiger Reserve

Buxa offers dense forests and historic ruins, providing a different kind of safari experience. It serves as a vital corridor for elephant migration and supports various other wildlife.
  • Biodiversity: Over 150 species of birds and a significant tiger population.
  • Best Time to Visit: October to February.
  • Terrain: Requires moderate fitness for trekking activities.
Neora Valley National Park

5. Neora Valley National Park

This park is famous for its pristine forests and Red Panda sighting opportunities. Its remote location offers a tranquil environment away from city hustle.
  • Bird Watching: Over 265 avian species documented.
  • Trekking: Beautiful trails amidst the rich flora.
  • Accessibility: Limited, typically reached by foot or small vehicles.
Chilapata Forest

6. Chilapata Forest

Nestled close to Jaldapara, this less-explored forest is home to wild elephants, leopards, and the rare one-horned rhinoceros. The forest's unique varying topography and riverine woods make it perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Climate: Best avoided during monsoon.
  • Safari Options: Includes jeep safaris for deep forest exploration.
  • Historical Interest: Remnants of an ancient fort are present within.
Kaziranga National Park

7. Kaziranga National Park

Though slightly distant, Kaziranga is notable for its vast herds of one-horned rhinos and wild water buffaloes. The park's terrain varies from wetlands to dense forests.
  • Heritage: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Travel: A more extended trip, with travel options from Kolkāta.
  • Season: Visitable from November to April for favorable weather conditions.
Simlipal National Park

8. Simlipal National Park

A great option for tiger enthusiasts, Simlipal combines thick forests with picturesque waterfalls. Its tiger and elephant population, alongside rich botanical diversity, add value to its safaris.
  • Forest Trails: Offers both jeep and walking safaris.
  • Nearby Attractions: Includes stunning waterfalls like Barehipani.
  • Climate: Avoid summers due to extreme heat.
Betla National Park

9. Betla National Park

Located further to the west, Betla is known for its elephants, tigers, and leopards, amidst ancient ruins. The park's well-laid route enhances wildlife viewing experiences.
  • Accessibility: Well-connected by road and rail.
  • Accommodation: Government lodges offer convenient stays.
  • Safari Arrangement: Jeeps can be hired locally.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

10. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

Near Kalimpong, Chapramari is small but packed with vibrant birdlife and elephants. Its lush landscape also makes for beautiful photography.
  • Landscape: Surrounded by scenic tea gardens.
  • Viewing Towers: Provides panoramic views of the surroundings.
  • Timing: Open October to May for visits.
Kanha National Park

11. Kanha National Park

Though famous for its tiger conservation efforts, Kanha's mix of meadows, forests, and streams attract a diverse range of species. It's a slightly long journey from Kolkāta but rewarding.
  • Conservation Program: Known for the “Save the Tiger” efforts.
  • Accessibility: Requires an extended travel plan.
  • Best Visitation Period: Generally from February to June.
Manas National Park

12. Manas National Park

Known for adventure sports like river rafting, apart from its rich wildlife, including tigers and rhinoceroses. It is a blend of high biodiversity and scenic beauty.
  • Recognition: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Remote Access: Requires careful travel planning.
  • Weather: Suitable visits from November to April.
Singalila National Park

13. Singalila National Park

Famous for the Sandakphu trail, offering sightings of the Red Panda and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The park is a dream destination for trekkers and photographers.
  • Trekking: Features one of India's most renowned trails.
  • Flora: Abundant varieties of orchids and magnolias.
  • Visit Period: March to May and October to December.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

14. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Bordering the river banks, Mahananda is a birdwatcher’s paradise with opportunities to see elephants and bison. Its diverse landscape includes dense forests and rolling hills.
  • Proximity: Close to Siliguri, making it easily reachable.
  • Ecosystem: Offers varied terrain like river banks and hill slopes.
  • Wildlife: Best accessed via guided safari tours.
Rajaji National Park

15. Rajaji National Park

Its unique location offers both grassland and mountainous terrains perfect for a variety of animal sightings. It’s acknowledged for preserving the Asian Elephant habitat.
  • Landscape: Offers an exciting combination of terrains.
  • Timing: Best viewed from November through June.
  • Activities: Options include rafting on the Ganges.
Bandhavgarh National Park

17. Bandhavgarh National Park

Known for having a high density of Bengal tigers, this park presents rich wildlife trails through its rugged hills. It's a perfect spot for wildlife photography.
  • Heritage Aspect: Features ancient ruins within its area.
  • Safari Setup: Well-organized jeep safaris.
  • Visit Timing: Best from October to March for visibility.
Orang National Park

18. Orang National Park

This park is likened to a mini-Kaziranga, with successful conservation of the numbers of the one-horned rhinoceros. Its diverse wildlife and serene sunset views draw visitors.
  • Accessibility: Lesser known, thus offering quieter experiences.
  • Primary Fauna: Spot include hog deers, wild buffaloes.
  • Ideal Months: October to April for spotting across habitats.
Palamau Tiger Reserve

19. Palamau Tiger Reserve

Known for its picturesque landscape, it provides ample opportunities to see paradisiacal wildlife in the densely forested terrain. Spotting elephants and tigers can be exhilarating.
  • Forest Type: Offers both tropical and dry deciduous variants.
  • Visitor Services: Guided tours enhance safety and wildlife sightings.
  • Best Season: Winter months for comfortable weather.
Bibhuti Bhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

20. Bibhuti Bhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

Named after the famous Bengali novelist, the sanctuary offers rustic trails for trekkers and sightings of deer and birds. Its close proximity to Kolkāta makes it a convenient escape.
  • Proximity: Ideal for short, day-long trips from Kolkāta.
  • Unique Scenes: Features rustic riverine environments.
  • Best Visitation: Primarily from October to March.
  • Each of these parks and sanctuaries offers a distinct feature that sets it apart, allowing visitors to pick destinations that best match their wildlife safari interests while in or near Kolkāta.